EXAMPLE 4.4 Predicting the polar character of a molecule
Because the polarity of a molecule affects its physical properties, you need to know
whether a molecule is polar or nonpolar when predicting the volatility of a liquid or
selecting a solvent. Because a molecule with polar bonds can be nonpolar overall, you
need to know the shape of the molecule to predict its polarity.
Predict whether (a) a boron trifl uoride molecule, BF3, and (b) an ozone molecule,
O3, are polar.
ANTICIPATE The bonds in BF3 are very polar, but the bonds in O3 are not, so you
might expect BF3 to be polar and O3 to be nonpolar. However, the shape of a molecule
determines the polarity of the molecule, so the shapes must be identifi ed before you can
make a prediction.
PLAN In each case, predict the shape of the molecule by using the VSEPR model and
then decide whether the symmetry of the molecule results in the cancellation of the
dipole moments associated with the bonds. If necessary, refer to Fig. 4.7.
SOLVE